Texas’ Will Licon becomes first swimmer named Big 12 Men’s Athlete of the Year

Texas swimmer Will Licon capped a remarkable college career by joining the ranks of the Big 12’s greatest athletes.

Licon on Thursday became the first swimmer named the conference’s male athlete of the year. He shared the award with former Kansas guard Frank Mason, now a member of the Sacramento Kings.

“It’s really special and humbling to receive this award, and I appreciate the consideration from the media panel and the fans,” Licon said in a statement. “I’ve had the opportunity to watch Frank Mason through the years, and I’m honored to share this award with him. College swimming and diving is stacked with some really deep conferences. My teammates and I are happy to have carried the flag for the Big 12 and keep the league on top these last three years.”

Last March, Licon made history as the first Big 12 swimmer to win three NCAA individual titles at a single NCAA Championship meet. His performance helped UT’s swimming and diving team claim its 13th national title.

“This wouldn’t even be remotely possible if not for the training environment we have at Texas,” said Liecon, one of four swimmers in college history to win NCAA titles in four different individual events throughout his career. “I’ve had the best coaches I could have ever asked for – from Eddie Reese and Kris Kubik to Wyatt Collins and Chase Kreitler – and my teammates are like brothers to me. This is a team award, and it’s all for them.”

He finished his UT career with 11 NCAA titles, 18 All-America honors, 12 conference titles and two selections as the Big 12 men’s Swimmer of the Year.